National, Hong Kong flags found damaged at public housing estates, some with black marks on yellow stars of banners
- Twelve national flags hung at Lam Shek House in Kwun Tong found to have been stained, while black marks on yellow stars of some flags were spotted
- Visitors to estate marvel at sight of an array of flags, while some residents worry they may be held accountable should a mishap occur
National and Hong Kong flags have been found damaged at some public housing estates in the city, ahead of the 25th anniversary of its return to Chinese rule.
Police received a report at about 5am on Sunday from security guards at Ping Shek Estate in Kwun Tong, where national and Hong Kong flags have been hung on every floor of Lam Shek House, creating a sea of banners in the building’s lightwell.
A preliminary investigation by the force showed that 12 national flags at Lam Shek House were stained, while one was stolen.
The Post also observed that there were black marks on the yellow stars of some flags, while others were loosely hung.
A national flag at Kam Shek House in the same estate was also found missing. Police have listed the cases as desecrating the national flag and theft. No one has been arrested so far.
Tam Yiu-chung, Hong Kong’s sole delegate to the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, the nation’s top legislative body, said it was a serious offence.
“The national flag represents the country, you damage it, what is your intention? It is illegal if someone does that, the police must bring those responsible to justice,” Tam said.